What's Happening?
The Cathedral of St John the Divine in New York City has unveiled a new art installation titled 'UNSEEN' by artist Nisha Bansil. The work consists of over 50,000 glass ginkgo leaves set on the stone steps of the cathedral, symbolizing the city's often-overlooked
unhoused population. The installation aims to draw attention to the more than 100,000 individuals who sleep in shelters and on the streets of New York nightly. The leaves were crafted at the Corning Museum of Glass in upstate New York, utilizing a unique glassworking technique. The unveiling coincides with the cathedral's ongoing efforts to support the city's poor through its Cathedral Community Cares program.
Why It's Important?
This installation serves as a poignant reminder of the social issues facing New York City, particularly the plight of the unhoused. By using art to highlight this issue, the Cathedral of St John the Divine is leveraging its cultural influence to foster awareness and empathy. The project also underscores the role of public art in addressing social challenges and engaging the community in meaningful dialogue. Additionally, the initiative supports the cathedral's broader mission of providing resources and support to those in need, reinforcing the importance of community-based solutions to social problems.
